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Cozy Crockpot Stew

cozy crockpot stew recipe - featured image

A hearty and comforting slow-cooked stew made with tender beef chuck, vegetables, and a savory broth, perfect for cozy nights and easy meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 small red potatoes, quartered
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning beef)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes in batches for 4-5 minutes per batch, turning to brown all sides. Set aside.
  2. While beef is browning, prepare vegetables: peel and slice carrots, chop celery and onion, mince garlic, and quarter potatoes.
  3. Add browned beef, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes to the crockpot. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Add thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Stir gently halfway through cooking if possible.
  5. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add frozen peas. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves before serving.

Notes

Browning the beef before slow cooking adds richer flavor but can be skipped for convenience. Add peas in the last 15 minutes to keep their texture and color. To thicken stew, stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook 15 minutes on high. Flavors deepen if made ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot stew, slow cooker stew, beef stew, comfort food, easy dinner, hearty stew, cozy meal